OFFICERS are urging rural communities to stay vigilant after reports from concerned farmers about suspected poachers.

Most recently, Northumbria Police said there was a report of people acting suspiciously with dogs in Heddon, Northumberland.

Rural officers conducting enquiries are asking communities to report any suspected sightings and concerns to police.

Inspector Pam Bridges said: “We encourage anyone with information about poachers or illegal hunting to contact police.

“We have strong relationships with our rural partners who regularly provide intelligence.

“Reports of this nature at a time when strict stay-at-home rules are in place also gives further cause for concern.

“We have also had reports of dog walkers trespassing on private farmland and causing injury and stress to livestock.”